Junagarh fort is one of the most impressive fort complexes in India. Junagarh fort was built by Raja Rai Singh in 1588 AD. Junagarh fort is one of those few forts that are not built on a hilltop. The fort complex consists of palaces, courtyards, pavilions and balconies. The walls palaces etc. are ornamented with carved stones, marbles, paintings and inlaid semi-precious stones. Each palace in the Junagarh fort complex was built by a different ruler over the centuries.
One of the most impressive structures in the Junagarh fort complex is the Anup Mahal. Its elaborately decorated walls are covered in red and gold with colored glass inlay. The Anup Mahal is a multi-storied palace and was the governance chambers for the rulers. Its beautifully decorated rooms display the valuables of the royal family. In the Badal Mahal or the clouds palace White plaster pillars are decorated in delicate patterns and covered with gold leaves. The Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace's walls are painted with a fresco of rain clouds. In the rain fresco photograph there is a painting of Krishna and Radha surrounded by the blue cloud motifs.
Junagarh fort complex has two entrance and has a total of 986 long walls that have 37 bastions. There are a total of 37 palaces, along with a number of pavilions and temples. One of the highlights of the architecture of Junagarh fort is its stone carving with an excellent quality. Number of rooms of the palace have paintings and decorations that were done in traditional style. Suraj Pol and Daulat Pol are two main gates of the fort. Suraj Pol or the sun gate was east facing and was the main gate of the fort complex. The historical Daulat Pol has the handprints of the royal ladies who had committed sati along with the pyres of their deceased husbands, at the Sati Stambh. Chand Pol, Karan Pol and Fatech Pol were the other inner gates.
By Road – Bikaner is well connected by road
to all the major cities of north India like Delhi (458km), Jaipur (354 km), Jodhpur (235 km) and Jaisalmer (333 km).There are regular govt and private bus services that operate for all major cities.
By Train – Bikaner railway station connected to Delhi, Calcutta, Agra, Jaipur, Allahabad very well. The gorgeous ‘Palace on wheels’ also covers Bikaner in its eight-day tour of Rajasthan.
By Air – The nearest airport to Bikaner is Jodhpur Airport at a distance of 235 km.
The best time to visit Bikaner is in winter, between November and February. The cooler temperatures and enjoyable weather make this the ideal time for travelers to roam around the forts, palaces, and bazaars at leisure. The temperature hovers between 4 °C (39 °F) and 23 °C (73 °F). Since the nights can be nippy, you would do well to carry some jackets and a few woolen accessories to keep you comfortable.
